situated on an extremely small plot measuring only 65 sqm, 'grow' by apollo architects & associates is a downtown tokyo residence conceived for a husband-and-wife designer couple.
on the ground floor, a cockpit-like office at the entrance which runs along the east side of the home, neighbors the garage, separated by a single pane of glass which visually expands the narrow space. when the garage is open to its fullest extent, it creates a sense of unity between the street and interior. a small square white rock covered courtyard located at the back left corner of the garage fills with diffused light which floods down from the upper levels, projecting a sense of tranquility into the adjoining master bedroom.
a staircase which spirals from the ground floor to the penthouse leads upwards to the second floor outfitted with a large changing room and sleeping quarters for the client's three children - this area is divided by a curtain. two large doors which open out over the courtyard from the bathroom allow one to enjoy a relaxing 'outdoor' bath complete with fresh air and sunlight.
the third floor floor houses the dwelling's main communal areas such as the kitchen and living room. high skylights installed along the walls and the ceiling - which is sloped as a result of the setback limit imposed by the city - provide a lot of natural light into the home,making it feel open and airy despite its small area. these windows also offer panoramic views of the sky and downtown area with built-in furniture covered in tatami mats lining the south and east facing walls of the family room. a balcony extends from the kitchen where the residents are able to grow their own plants, allowing them to prepare food in an open environment, while a rooftop garden offers an additional green oasis for the owners in the middle of the city.